BRIGHTON have agreed a fee with Sporting Lisbon for right-back Ezequiel Schelotto.

The 28-year-old - capped once by the Italian national side in 2012 - has been with the Portuguese giants for two years.

Getty - Contributor

Sporting Lisbon right-back Ezequiel Schelotto is closing in on a move to Brighton

EPA

Ezequiel Schelotto looks to be on his way from the Portuguese giants

Argentinian-born Schelotto is also capable of playing as a winger, with Chris Hughton highlighting his versatility as a key reason why he wants him at the AMEX Stadium.

He has spent most of his career in Italy, playing for a host of Serie A sides, including Inter Milan.

However he couldn't hold down a regular spot in the starting XI at the San Siro after his move from Atalanta in January 2013, and after 12 league games and a goal against AC Milan, he was shipped off on three loan deals.

Sassuolo, Parma and Chievo all benefited from his services, and two-and-a-half-years after donning the famous Inter jersey he was released in the summer of 2015.

Nicknamed El Galgo - "The Greyhound" - Schelotto joined Jorge Jesus' side that November, where he has established himself as a valuable squad member.

He has since gone on to make nearly 40 appearances for the Primeira Liga outfit.

A friendly appearance against England in August 2012 has been the highlight of his career so far.

Getty - Contributor

The versatile Italian will be a Brighton player before the end of the transfer window

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